January 12, 2026 — The Highgate Volunteer Fire Department is reminding residents and visitors to use extreme caution when operating snowmobiles on frozen waterways, emphasizing that speed and poor visibility are major contributors to through-the-ice incidents. Fire officials warn against “overdriving” a snowmobile’s headlight, noting that even at speeds as low as 30 miles per hour, it can take far longer to stop on ice than the distance illuminated ahead. Many fatal accidents occur when operators are unable to stop after their headlamp reveals an unexpected hole or area of thin ice. The department also strongly encourages riders to wear a life vest under winter gear or use flotation snowmobile suits, and to carry ice picks—homemade or commercially available—which can be critical for self-rescue. Pulling oneself onto solid ice is extremely difficult when clothing and gear become waterlogged, adding significant weight, and ice picks can make the difference between escape and tragedy.